Definition

Myocardial perfusion imaging is a test
to look at the blood flow and function of the heart. It
uses a low dose of a radioactive agent.
Blood flow to the heart is best tested when your heart is working hard, so this test is usually done during
exercise. If you cannot exercise, your doctor may use a drug
to
increase your heart's workload.

Possible Complications

Problems from the procedure are rare, but all procedures have some risk. Your doctor will review potential problems, like:

Chest pain

Irregular heart rhythm

Radiation exposure

Heart attack (rare)

During the test, technicians will be alert for any signs of heart or lung problems. They will be ready to take action if complications develop. Your doctor will be available during the test, as well.

What to Expect

Prior to Test

Before the test is scheduled, let your doctor know if you have any medical conditions that may limit your ability to exercise. If you cannot exercise, your doctor may order a drug to mimic exercise. Let your doctor know if you have any of the following:

Description of Test

A blood pressure cuff is placed on one arm. An IV is inserted into a vein on your other arm. Small, round pads are placed on your chest. They will monitor your hearts electrical activity. Your blood pressure and heart rate are monitored before, during, and after you have exercised.

A small amount of radioactive material will be passed into the bloodstream through your IV. The radioactive tracers concentrate in the parts of the heart that have the best blood flow. A special camera will show the parts of the heart that are not getting enough blood. These images are taken while you are at rest and while you exercise.

Your heart may first be monitored while at rest.
The exercise or “stress” part of the test is usually done with a treadmill. You begin by slowly walking on the treadmill. The pace
will gradually
increase. As you exercise, your heart rate and blood pressure will change. At your peak exercise, the tracer is injected into the IV. You will continue exercising for another one or two minutes so images can be taken.

If you are unable to exercise for any reason, the doctor may use a drug that mimics the effect of exercise on the heart. If you notice any changes in the way you feel, or experience any side effects, notify the doctor who is monitoring the test.

About
15-30 minutes after exercise, you will lie down on a special table. More images will be taken of your heart.

If you have
coronary artery disease
, you may feel chest pain or
angina
during the
test.
You may give you medication for the symptoms and the test may be stopped early.
Let the care center staff
know if you have any symptoms of jaw, neck, arm, or chest pain.

After Test

You will be able to leave after the test is done.

If
medication was given to increases the work of your heart, you may have
anxiety
,
lightheadedness, nausea, shakiness, or shortness of breath. Let the care center staff
know if you have any of these symptoms. There is a possibility that you may experience some effects from the medication for up to 24 hours after the test.

How Long Will It Take?

The entire test takes 3-5 hours. You may receive the entire test in one day, or you may have each part of the test on separate days.

Will It Hurt?

In general, this test should not be painful.

Results

The doctor will compare the images taken of
rest with the images
taken during stress. If your heart is relatively healthy, there should be little or no difference between the images.
If your heart has partially blocked arteries, images taken during stress will be different from those taken at rest.

Call Your Doctor

After the test, call your doctor if any of the following occur:

Your symptoms continue or worsen

You develop any new symptoms

You continue to experience side effects from the medications used

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.